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A ST'JDY OF THE METiiaDIST
YOtmi KOVEHEHT
A Th�0l�
Presented to the Fsioulty ot tbe Depurtnent of Christian Education
Asbury Theologioal Sevlaary
In Partial Pulflllxnent
of the Hequlreaents for the Degree
Master of Rellglotit Eduoatlon
by
froy Sol laon
August 1@57 TABLE CHAPTER PAOE I, THE PROBLES ASD DEPIHITIOKS OP TERMS V&W .... 1 The Problem ...... 1 StAtenent of the problem ..... 1 Importance of Study ...... 1 Definitions of Terms Used 1 Holy Club 1 Chautauqua Movement ... . 2 The Unified Flan 2 The Correlated Plan 2 II. THE BACKGROUHD OP THE YOUTH HOVEMERT ...... 3 Early Historians S The Sunday Bohool Movement .. .. 4 Young Men* 8 Christian Assoolatlon ...... 5 Christian Endeavor ...... 9 Early Hfethodist Societies 12 Young People's Methodist Alliance ...... 12 The Oxford League 16 Young People's Christian Alliance ...... 20 The Methodist Young People's Union ..... 21 Methodist Episcopal Alliance . 22 III. THE EPWORTH LEAGUE 23 Need For Organisation ...... 23 Founding the Ipworth League ...... 24 ill OHAPTES PAGE The Colore 31 The Badge 31 The Motto 31 Sentiaients of the League ...... 31 First Meeting of the Board of Control .... 32 Looal Constitution 34 The Organ 37 Organisation of Chapters . 38 The League Calendar ...... 39 Quiet Hour Covenant 39 Epworth Bra Day 40 Fellowship Week . 40 Anniversary Day � 40 Eduoatlon Day 40 Mission Study Rally ..... 40 Bible Study Day r . 41 Changes That The Years Brought 41 The %�orth Wheel ...... 41 The Pledge ..... 41 Some Results . 41 Missionary Outreach 41 The League Overseas � ..... 41 Flexibility of the League 42 Iv CHAPfER PAGE IV. THE MlTH(a)IST YOUTH PELLGWEHIP 43 Foui^ing th� Fellowship ...... 43 The Emblen axA Colors ...... 44 The Motto 44 The Covenant ...... 44 The Intermediate Department �... � 44 The Church Program 46 Quallfioations For Leaders ...... 47 Leaders 47 Organization 46 Membership ..... 49 The Senior and Young People's Department .... 49 Flan I . 50 Plan II 50 The Four Commlsalons 51 Worship and Evangelism 51 Christian Witness 52 World Friendship 52 Community Servloe . 63 Times of Worship 54 Beyond the Looal Churoh 55 Seniors , 66 Older Youth 56 Subdlstrlot 56 CHAPTER PAGE DUtrlot 57 A^nu&l Conference ...�..���*.�. 57 The Jurladlotlen ...... 58 The Hat tonal Conference 58 The Joint Staff 59 On the College Campus ...... 59 V. A COMPARATIVE STUDY 62 VI. OOHOLUSIOH 67 CHAPTER I ISTHODUCTION In 1889 the Methodltt (aiiucch for the first time formed an organisation of all Methodist youth. There had been many effioially recognised societies, but each ministered only to the youth In its area. Meed was felt for a society that would draw the young people together as a body. I. THE PROBLEM Statement of the problem. It was the purpose of this study to: (1) briefly study the youth movements preceding the Methodist Touth movement, {2) study more closely the Epworth League and the Methodist Youth Fellowship, (S) make a oomparative study of these organisations in regard to alma. Inqaortanee of the study . The youth of the church today will be the leaders of the church of tomorrow. The Methodist Chureh realised this and attempts have been made to prepare youth for this great task. This study deals with these efforts and their outcome. II. DEFINITIONS CP TSKMS USHJ The Holy Club. The Holy Club was the name given the religioxM group at Oxford University of itolch Charles and John Wesley were members. It was also given the name "Method- 2 Chautauqua Mpvaaant . This movament was an influential and aharaeteristloally American development in adult edu cation. It originated In 1874 with the first CSiautauqua assembly, held on the shores of Chautauqua Lake in the south west comer of Sew York state. It was instituted for the purpose of training Sunday sohool teachers. Dr. Vineent, the founder expected training classes in the local ehuroh to become universal. Hftille nmny were established the teadner training movement eventually and largely assumed the form of teachers' meetings for the study of next Sunday's Inter national Uniform Lessen. ^e Unified Plan. The unified plan of the Methodist Youth Fellowship controls all activities of youth under one program with one set of officers. The youth belong to the Fellowship as a whole and not to separate departments or agencies. This is also referred to as Plan 1 in the Method ist Discipline. Correlated Plan. Under the correlated plan of the Methodist Fellowship, membership is maintained in separate departments and agencies which have their own set of officers and programs. All departments are oorrelated to meet the goals set up by the Council. 3 THE BA0KOR0U8D OP THE YOUTH MOVEMEHT Jenlsh historian, Josephua, tails In his writings that fro� th� days of Moses the young Jews assembled in their synagoges every Sabbath, not only to hear the law but to leam it oerreotly. This instruction of the young was so thorough, that, as Josephus expressed It, "If any one of us should be questioned eonoernlng the law, he could more easily give all of them than his own name."-^ Philo also wrote that the synagoge was a "real house of learning" and through them the Jews were Instructed In the law from early youth. The teaoher listened while the pupil questioned.^ This wmj have been the Bible sohool system among the Jews in Paleatlae at the time of Christ's birth. Similar sohoels were earrled on In the e�rly ohureh; and it is gener ally acknowledged that the successful propagation of the apostolic witness was largely due to the faithful adherence of Its successors to the devinely approached plan of child- rearing and ehild-teaohing. "The Apostolic ehuroh,** says Barron Brunsen, **made the school the connecting link between ^ Clarence H. Benson, The Sunday Sohool In Action (Chioago: Moody Press, 1044) pp. 13-14. ^ Ibid. 4 itself and the world, The negleot of the echoola by the dhuroh waa partly reaponiible for the dark ages. The Refor- Biation was a return to the teaching principle as well as the teaohlng material of the Apostles. The catechisms, i^ich eharaeterl sed the separation from the church of ^ome, were prepared primarily for the teaohlng minis tJ^r. In an attempt to step the triumph�nt progress of Protestantism, the counter oatholio educational nK>rement of the Jesuits, was only a return to the Apostolic sohool Idea.^ In this chapter will be pointed out how other education al and religious movements went before aiMl Influenced the Youth movement of the Methodist churoh. These movements will not be dealt with in detail. One of the moat isrportant movements for young people was of course the Sunday sohool movement, started by Robert Ralkes in the 18th oentxu^, for the purpose of reaching the children of the street. Many diuroh people opposed the Sunday school and felt that it was sacrilegious for these si^ools to operate on the Sabbath. John Wesley, the founder of the Methodist church was closely identified with the movement, ^lle most of the clergymen this day were either hostile or indifferent to the movement, Wesley directed his preachers to form societies * Ibid. * Ibid. 5 within thw ooagregations wher� there were ten or more ohlldren.5 In 1790 ^e Uethedlst oonferenoe in Charleston, South Carolina, gave recognition to the Sunday sdiool by the follow ing resolution: Let us labor as the heart and soul of one man to establish Sunday schools in or near the place of public werwhip. Let persons be appointed by bishops to teach all that will attend, and have capacity to learn, from �Ix o'clock in the morning until ten, and from two In the afternoon until six, where It does not interfere with pub lic worship. Be it further resolved that the oounoll should oorapile a proper sohool book to teach them learn ing and piety. 5 The tuooess of the Sunday Sohool was largely due to Its provision of aeoular as well as religious instzniotion by means of volunteer teachers.*^ THK YOONO SSES'S CRRISTIAli ASSOCIATIOS In lesi, in Boston, Massachusetts, Captain Thomas V. Sullivan a fifty-one year old sea captain, who had retired at the age of thirty-six to devote himself to religious work among seamen, organized the Young Men*s Christian Association In the United States. For a number of years he had served as chaplain for the American Bethel Booiety, working among sailors on the Oreat Lakes. In 1847 he established himself as Marine missionary at large for the port of Boston. In that capacity ^ Olarenoe H. Benson, History of Christ ian Kduoation (Moody Press, 1943) pp. las-s'^i; * Ibid., p. 132. Ibid., p. 186. 6 h� rallied aro\md hlmeelf � group of businecsraen who con tributed to hie support and a group of young men �ftio assisted in his work* They represented various ohxirches of Eteston.� Captain Sullivan had no denominational prejudice and his work operated on this basis. His plans for founding the Young Sfen's Christian Association eame after reading an artlele In the Baptist Watchman and Reflector describing the Young Men's Christian Assoolatlon In London, organised seven years before.^ ^e founder of London Young Men's Christian Association was George Williams, later Sir George Williams. He moved to London in 1841 and became an employee in a dry good's establishment of ihloh he became the proprietor. At that tinw there were some eighty young men esqployed in the differ ent departments of the business, through Williams' efforts a Young Men's Christian Association was organized for the purpose of establishing religious services and Bible classes among the young men es^loyed in London. The organisation took place June 6, 1844. The Association was marked by intense religious seal. Throuf^a personal interviews by its members, there was a persistent oampaign to win young men to lead a religious 8 Samuel Wlrth Wiley, History of Y.M.C.A. Churoh Relations In the United States (New York: Association Press, mi) p. i: 7 llfe.lO The Boston soolety laid great e^hasis upon the Assoolatlon as a social eenter. ^e Z�ndon Assoolatlon allowed Christians or non-Christians, ohureh member or non- ohuroih member to be members but only the members of an evan- gelieal chureh could be a voter or office holder. Through the efforts of Chauneey M� Longdon, a govern ment employee in Washington and later a olergyman In the Kpiseopal Ohureh, a Convention of the American Associations was called at Buffalo in JUne 1854. This convention established an Alllanoe of the Assoolatlons of the United States and Canada under the supervision of an executive committee, whloh was instructed to call annual conventions. The organization was also made an international one. There was a oonvention held in Paris, France in 1855, at whiles the Paris Basis was adopted. This has become the Apostle's Creed of the Association, and did much to unify the movement. Thm Basis read; The Young Men's Christian Association seeks to unite these young men, who regarding Jesus Christ as their Ood and Saviour according to the Holy Scriptures, desire to be His desQiple in their doctrine and in their life, and Owen E, Pence, "Period I, 1844 to 1855, Founding of the Young Men's Christian Association," The Fjioyolopedia 653-664. Americana . 1965, Vol. 29) pp. Ibid, 8 to associate their efforts for the extension of His 12 kingdom among young men. In 1665 at Springfield, Massachusetts, a school was established for the training of general secretaries for the young Men�8 cairlstlan Association. A year later a physical training departauint was added for the training of physical directors . In religious education the ohlef wnphasls was placed upon the Bible classes, but ther� was an Increasing diversity of program whleh later evolved into a department of religious education. An Is^ortant phase of the religious work of the assoolatlon was the lntez>est in foreign missions, whloh it had aroused among young men. For many years the work of the association was limited to young men between sixteen and seventeen years of age and upward. The first boys department was organized in 1869. This work has come to be known as the Hl-Y Club. During war years the Association has worked with the govornaent in home and overseas programs for service men. In the earliest years, a good many pastors feared that the Assoolatlon mlg^t attempt to take the place of the church, or to become another <*urch. The oritieism of the Association, after the first world war, brotight the church to Its defense. Ibid . , p. 654. 9 This led to more cooperation. After the war cam� the Fvmdamentalist-Koderalat divlaion. Controversy sprang up everywhere. Reaction against liberalism made it hard for many Associations to please the church with their religious teaohings; Indeed they found it iiqpossible to engage in sny definite religious work without offending some part of their church eonstltuenoy. Thus while the International Coranittee leaned strongly toward a liberal position in its seleetion of speakers and in pub- lloations, and hence eame the suspicion of the conservatives looal Associations sought to keep out of the controversy. The Sunday afternoon rellgloxjs services were generally discontinued. Bible olasses, even among boys, were relaxed. Today the Young Men's Christian Association has become social and athletic centered and does not place the eiqihaslB upon the spiritual as in the begliming.^^ CHRISTIAN ENDEAVOR The United Society of Christian Endeavor originated in Portland, Maine, in 1881. The first society was formed by Dr. Franols K. Clark, on the second day of February, in the Wllllston Chxuroh. There were about fifty young people present boys and girls, as well as young men and women. The real beglnalng was at a prayer meeting held in the Olark home prior to the meeting in the church. The object of the society was 1^ llloy, o�. elt., pp. 121-123. ^* Ibid. 10 to help the boye and girls to be Christians and to train them to work for Christ �1� In 1882 the first CSiriatlan Endeavor Convention was hold in Wllllston Churoh, Portland. By this time there were about twenty sooleties in different parts of the country. By 1885 the society had spread to seven foreign countries .1� The constitution of CSiristian Endeavor provided for three types of aembera: active, associate and affiliated or honorary members. The active members were those who pro fessed to be Christians. They held the voting power. Assoolate members were those who did not consider themselves as Christians. They were excused tvom the prayer meetings. Affiliated or honorary members were the older Christians who desired to remain as part of the society. This grovQ) was to be looked to for financial and moral support .1''' Christian education is not merely the acquisition, but the use of knowledge. In fact the edueational program in volves the four steps of acquisition, assimilation, appropria tion, and application of knowledge. But the Sunday sohool, largely because of the absence of trained teaohers, had con tented itself with instruoting and drilling its pupils. Pranols E. Clark, Training the Church of the Future London: Funk md (Hew York and Wagnalls Company , 1^0^ } p. l69. Ibid., p. 182. 11 Dr. Henz>y Clay Trumbull reoognisad this outstanding oaisBlon in the Sunday aoheol prograra, when in his Yale leo- turea on the Sunday Sohool in 1888, he said: Our Lord in training His band of apostles first en listed them as followers; then he instructed them in the principles and methods of service to which they were called; after this he sent them out to practice in the line of His Instruction to them. This was and is the one true method in right training, and of course, it was adopted by our Lord In His work. The threefold work of winning, of informing and of exercising - of enlistment, of instruction, and of drill - proceed, ifeerever the training process is made practical, to the couplet ion of the rellgloua life of disciples of cairist, today. The first factor in this work, we may say, is represented by the pulpit; the second by the Sunday school; the -^ird, by Uiose auxiliary agencies which for lack of a better name may be counted as the gymnasia of the ohureh in whloh the young membership is to have practice in moral and athletics .1� Trumbull, in speikking of an auxiliary agency to supply the training that oosipletes religious education, undoubtedly had In islnd the Ohristlan Endeavor movement. Clark proposed a sli^le plan of a self-managed organi sation for young people that would provide instruction and worship, but also give opportunity for expression. The United Society of CSiristian Endeavor Society must be recognized as one of the great SK^vements in religious edu oatlon. As there were few if any of its constituents who were not enrolled at some time in the Sunday school, it is doubtful If it would ever have attained such signal success Benson, 0�. olt., p. 205. 12 without the existence of the older agency, Clark only added an essential superstructure to the foundational work of Robert Raikes.^9 METHODIC SOCIETIIS In 1889 five of the then existent Methodist youth groups sent their delegates to Cleveland, Ohio, to work out plans for one strong organization. ?hey realized that in Spite of all the attei^ts of the cihurcb to meet the needs of the yoxaig people, the dauroh was falling in her effort. These five groups with their delegation were: 1. The Young People's Methodist Alliance was repre- sented byt Reverand Henry Date, Si, D, Carrol, A. Keen, S. 1. Heald, W. L, Gogshall and Willis W. Cooper. 2. The Oxford League, represented by J. L. Hurlbut, Sm M. Freeman, H. R. Doherty, J. Etebury Price, James L. Dochlng, Mrs. Byron E. Hllman. S. The Christian League, represented by Willis T. Haven, Willis P, Odell and 0. A. Llttlefield. 4. Methodist Young People's Union was represented by W. W, Washbvtrn, Charles H. Morgan, Samuel Plants, Frederick A. Smart, James E. Jaoklln, and Claudius B. Spenoer . 5. Young People's Methodist Episcopal Alliance was represented by RevoraM J. S. Reager, 0. A, Reeder, Jr., B. J, Mills, Orlando Bagdley, and L, K. Wamer.20 1. Y0U8G PEOPLE'S METHODIST ALLIANCE ^e Young People's Methodist Alliance had come Into Ibid., p. 206. Joseph P. Berry, Four WoiBierful Years (Hunt and Baton: New York, 1893} pp. S^-SZTI 15 �Xlatenoe on August 25, 1883. It was born out of the Des- plalnea Camp Meeting at Deaplaines, Illinois, near Chicago* Dr. and Mrs, Asbury Lowei?, of Hew York, visited the oamp and preached the Wealeyan doctrine of entire sanctifl- oation until hundreds became Interested. Many young people sought a ftiller baptism of the Holy Spirit, and a more ec�u- plete consecration. The 11 ^t came clearly. Prejudices melted. Hunger and thirst increased. The filling time came. One day two young women, ^innie I. Benjamin and Lillian D�te met by appointment under a oertain tree for prayer and conversation. The next day a larger group gathered. The circle widened until, on August 21, there were twenty young people in attendance. John i^. Parmer, a student of Garrett Biblical Institute, led the services. No lan*> guage could express the glow of that hour. The little group of twenty waa about to turn baok to the oamp to attend the preaohing service, when Prank McCluney, then a young Chicago bookkeeper and later a pastor in the Methodist Episeopal Chureh, proposed that they should all sign a oonmon covenant. Henry Date proposed a permanent young people's society, that should aim to keep alive and spread the holy enthusiasm of Idle hour. In the mind of Date the plan was simply for a fellow ship, irtiose members should keep each other in mind during the interim between the summer meetings. A committee was appointed 14 to draft a oonatitution for the proposed society. Four days later in the Ivanston ohureh cottage the alllanoe oame into existence with a member^ip of nearly thirty. This number Increased to eighty before the oamp meeting was over. The first president was Henry Bate. CONST ITOTI ON AND AIM In August 1885, the oonstltutlon was remodeled and made national in its scope. Provision was made for a monthly paper, a speoial course of reading, a daily study of the Bible, and the foundation of looal alliances in the chtirohes. It was the ftim of the growing movement to promote loyal cooperation with the pastors, daily Bible study, avoidance of (juestlonable amusements, holy living, and thoughtful enthusi asm, and to lend a hand In keeping the yovmg people In olose sympathy with the usage, sacrifices, and experiences that had made the last oentvury of Methodism mighty for Ood* The standard lifted waa as high as that required of a candidate for ministerial orders. All active members were required to sign a pledge which read: I enjoy or will seek the blessing of heart purity as tatight In the Scriptures. I promise to abstain from the use of tobacco and of all intoxicants as a beverage, to refrain from oard-playing and dancing, and from attending the theater, the opera, the circus, and all other ques tionable places of amusement. I agree to have stated seasons of private prayer, to pray for my pastor and for members of the Young People's Methodist Alliance, to study the Bible eaoh day, and to give daily thought to the winning of souls, by personal conversation, letter 15 writing, tract diatrlbution, prayer, or other meana.^l THE PLEDGE The pledge was not required of associate members. Three mottos were used by the society: 1. "Holiness unto the Lord" � Bible. S* "We live to make our ohureh a power in the land, while we live to love eveiry other churoh that exalts our CJhrist" - Bishop Simpson. 3. *A11 for Jesus." - Mary D. Jamea. THE BADGE The badge everywhere worn was a narrow white ribbon with a scarlet thread. The ribbon was put on when the pledge was signed and was the insignia of a consecration made and a covenant taken. THE PIRST TSTBmNATIOKAL COSVOTION The first International oonvention of Methodist young people the world ever witnessed was held under the auspices of the alliance at Cihicago in September, 188S. In the nine months that followed three hundred new sooleties were enrolled. It was estimated that over one thousand persons were converted in meetings held by the Alliance. At its National Oonvention in Indianapolis, July 5, 1889, the Young People's Methodist Alliance endorsed the action Ibid., p. 10. 2^ Ibid. X6 of tha ClovelaiKi -onfoponoe, adopted the constitution of the Ipworth League, and voted Itself out of existence. It was at the crest of its success, with four hundred and ten local societies and nearly seventeen hundred members that its Identity was Isot by a voluntary act, and proof was given that love for the chureh was supreme, II. Tm OXPOHD LEAGUE The prime mover in the organization and development of the Oxford League was Dr. John H. Vincent. 'Ihe General Con ference of 1676 made provision for the Lyoium, an assoolatlon for literary Improvement, but it was found that this did not meet the needs of young people. Dr. Vincent purposed a plan for a society that should provide for syimaetrloal, spiritual, and intellectual oulture. This society was oalled the "Ox ford League" after the famous Knglish University in which the ''Holy Club" was founded. The new organization was received with favor by many pastors and leading laymen. The Oxford League had for its objects t 1. The commemoration of the meetings of certain students at Oxford, England, between 1729 and 1737, princi pally under the leadership of John and Charles Wesley, frcmi whloh meetings were developed the great religious awakening and revivals of the last centvary by which the doctrine and spirit of the apostles were again given in their fullness to 17 the world and the power of the primitive ohureh onoe more eatabllahed.SS 2. The furtheranoe of the four-fold ohjeets of the original Oxford Club: (1) the more careful ara3 devout study of the Holy Scriptures; (2) The cultivation of purer and nobler personal Charistlan character; (3) The study of the Christian elasslos for literary oulture; (4) The devising of methods of doing good to others .24 The Oxford League aimed, in the fuller development of this scheme, to encourage Methodist youth, 1. To study the Holy Scriptures with a view to the promotion of personal piety; 2. To become familiar with the Bible origin of the doctrines, spirit, and methods whleh eharaoterlze their own ehuroh; 3� To trace the presence and development of the Methodlstlo foroe in the Holy Catholic Church, from the days of the Apostles to the present time; 4. To trace the origin of the modern, evangalleal, and apostolic revival, known as "Mothodlsm" - "Christianity in earnest* - In the reotory of Epworth, the halls of Oxford, and In the ooncretated homes of the best English society, and to prosrate a just appreoia- tloB of the strength, soholarship, and dignity of the Method lstlo movement; 5. To promote personal consecration to praotieal work, carrying the Gospel In personal servloe to the most needy and most degraded, to the godless poor and to �' Ibid., p. 13. ^* Ibid. 18 the godless rich, reaohlng to the bedridden and the blind, visiting the siek rooin, the hospital, and the prison, look ing after new families eoolng into the eoramunitiea and Inviting ohlldren and adults to the Sunday sohool and the public service, studying the various benevolences of the ohureh, and thus cultivating intelligent enthusiasm in the entire work of the churoh; 6, To promote intellectual train ing under the ausploles of the ohureh through ohureh lyoeums or other ohureh oripinlaatlona, especially among those i^.o no longer attend sohool, and thus develop a rational and refined Christian aoolal life, in vAsieh people may find inspiration and people of limited opportunities be brought into gentle enabling and sanctifying fellowship and thus praetioally endorsed the official deliverances of all Christian churches in their councils, conventions, conferences, and assemblies against Irrational and hurtful amusements; 7. To further these varlotis ends by the publication and circulation of the permanent dooiunents devoted to the history, philosophy, doc trines, institutions and achievements of Methodism .^5 The Oxford League was denominational - a thoroughly Methodlstlo movement deslgred to build up Methodism, that Methodism ml^t more effectively work in building up the cause of Christ everywhere. 2^ Ibid. 19 AIM The oheraoter of the Lyoeums, the name Oxford end the possible Influenoe of the Chautauqua movement oomblned to produce the Irapression the Oxford League was designed chiefly for literary and social culture. This was altogether errone ous. The League was specifically religious in its aim. It proposed to promote spiritual life by more Bible study, to broaden the Christian horison by a larger culture in the world of thought and expression, and to deepen vital piety by devotional services and tender ministry in Ohristly work. It steadforthly strove for the symmetrical development of the whole man. In a word the Oxford League claimed the conse cration of every faculty and every opportunity to the servloe of Christ, SUCCESS OP THE MOVEMENT The League lifted a lofty standard and Inspiration was given to the chtirch for a forward movement. About five htin- dred chapters were established in sixty days when the hour of midnight struek at Cleveland. May 15, 1889 the Epworth Lea gue was born and tiie Oxford League folded Its banner and loyally laid its pledges of fealty and devotion at the feet of this latest born child of promise .25 26 Ibid., pp. 15-16. 20 III. YOtmO PEOPLE'S OHBISTIAS LEAGUE J. H. Tvoodbly was the originator of the Yovtng People's Christian League. Early In 1887, Dr. Twombly presented a resolution to the Boston Methodist's Preachers' Meeting eon oernlng the welfare of the young people of Methodism and calling for a oonvention of young people of Hew England. In response to this resolution a mass oonvention was held in first ohureh, Boston, October 26, 1887. About three hundred and fifty young people were present, representing about one hundred Hew England ohurohes. the first president of this League was W. i. Haven. AIM The League was started with broader plans than any society then existing in the church. The Young People's Methodist Alllanoe at that time had only one class of members, and the Oxford League required a uniform constitution. None of these sooletlei were able to bring together the already existing societies whloh were in many of the Methodist (lurches. The Young People's Christian League aimed to unify interests of these older the sooleties, lyoeums, guilds, bands � etc., with their looal histories and associations, by making them auxiliary to a central body without requiring any change of name or constitution or method of work, wherever these 27 were acceptable to their local church. Joseph F, Berry, Four Wonderful Years (Hew York: Hunt and Eaton, 1893) p. 19. 21 COHJ^ITUTIOS Very soon it was disoovered that there were a good many ohurohes without any young people's societies; so a oomlttee prepared some suggestions for a constitution for such ohureh groups. These required allegiance to local ohuroh to secure relation to the central body and not uni formity of organisation, the organisation was very demoeratlo, the officers and board of management being ohoacn by the delegates from the auxillairles present in annual oonTentions. SUCCESS The aohleyements of the Christian League during its brief career were Inspiring, If not numerous. The League accomplished much through leaflets, news letters, etc. With its devotional, denominational, literary and social, visita tion, temperanoe, mission, and flnanee departments, it attempted to carry out the spirit of the oiotto, "Look up and lift up." IV. THE MBTPODISI YOUNO PEOPLE'S UNION This organization was the outcome of a meeting of alert Datrolt conference pastors. *or some time they had been impressed that the time had come for t^e formation of a society for the social and religious culture of their young people - a society better fitted for this high purpose than in existence. The matter was first any of the others already 22 broached in November, 1887, at a geasion of the Detroit Methodist Ministers' Meeting, A call was issued and the oonvention assembled on December 19 and 80, 1887, In Central Methodist I^ilsoopal Churoh, Detroit, Miohlgan. Delegates from more than fifty ^lu'ohes and young people �s societies attended. As a result of this oonvention the Young People's Society of Detroit Cenferenoe was formed. A coeiprehensive oonstltutlon was adopted, many features of mhloh were later incorporated in the Epworth League. One year of trial and success convinced the managers of the society that there was something in the movement worth giving to the world. Consequently in 1888 the constitution was so revised as to provide for a more geneintl organization, luider the name of Methodist Young People's TInion. 23ut the managers of this society too, were seeking larger union. V. METOODIST EPISCOPAL ALLIANCE The fifth of the "original societies" was but an in fant tftien the consolidation took place. The organizers doubt less hoped that they had found the solutl on to the problem that was vexing the leaders of the younger host of Methodist. This oonferenoe hoped to unite the Methodist Episcopal societies of young people into one great oonneotional society. The con ference was held In Ashland, Ohio in September, 1888. Since the purpose of the Methodist Episcopal Alliance was realized in the Epworth League they unanimously adopted the constitu tion of that plan of union. 25 CHAPTER III THE EPWORTH LFAGCTE The Epworth League grew out of the union of emaller youth organizations of the Methodist ohuroh* In a sense these organizations did not die, but Inoorporated themselves Into one large ohuroh group for the good of Methodist youth* A. THE HEED PCS? ORGAHIZATIOU Even before the birth of the Young People's Methodist Alllanoe, whloh was the oldest of the five sooleties uniting to found the Epworth League, ohuroh people had been trying to establish a program to reaoh youth* Eaoh organization had failed to aooompllth iri^at was believed by many people that it should acoomplish* So organization after organization oame Into existence in attempts to meet the needs of the churoh. Until 1889 the Methodist Chureh did not have an organi sation for youth supported by all of Methodism. Though there were offleially recognized organizations yet there was not an organization whloh demanded the loyalty of all Methodist youth . Denominational leaders realized the need for an organi zation In which the ideas of the smaller organization would be inoorporated and whloh would sumon the loyalty of all Methodist young people. 24 B, POUKDIHG THE EPWORTH LEAOOl After many months of planning and prayer the meeting at Cleveland, Ohio, was called. On May 14, 1889 the delegates assembled in the Central Methodist Church for one of Method ism's greatest occasions. The Conference was called to order by <'illls W, Cooper, who was chosen as t��?)orary chairman, and A. H. ^lllet was ehosen t�aporary seoretary. The committee on permanent organisation was appointed and it was not long in selecting officers. Cooper was elected chairman and Claudius 6, Spenoer secretary. It was agreed ^at the voting be done by delegations and that eaoh dele gation have a right to six votes. 1 In order to secure a full and frank expression of opinion from the delegates upon the important issue which had brought them together, it was decided that a representative of each sooiety should speak for ten minutes, suggesting if possible, some basis for union. After a brief recess for consultation Henry Date spoke for the Methodist Alllanoe and offered a basis for the hoped for consolidation j 1. A uni form constitution J 2. Self government und�T> a general board j 3. A strong splrltxial element. The Oxford League was repre sented by Robert H, Doherty, its recording secretary. He was Joseph P. Berry, Four Ronderful Years {New York: Hunt and Eaton, Cinoinnati: Cranston and Curtis, 1893) pp. 30-31. 25 unable, however, at that tine to aake suggestiona for the pro posed union. W. I, Haven was spokesman for the Young People's Christian League. He recommended that: 1. The publishing interests be centered in �ew York; 2. That the general organisation be centered in New York; 3. That the secretaz>7 of the Sunday sohool union be the general secretary; 4. That General Conference district organieatlons be to a large degree autonomous, eaoh distrlot to elect two delegates to a con vention lAiich should be held quadrennially at the seat of the General Oonferenoe; 5. A local constitution with pledge and without pledge; 6. A Board of Control to consist of delegates from eaoh of the districts, a number of bishops and others. Washburn expressed the wishes of the Young People's Union and suggested these planks for the union platfons: 1. A pledge, but not to be Insisted upon for all; 2. A paper; 3. A general organisation similar in plan to that outlined by the representative of the Christian League; 4. A strong spiritual element. Speaking for the North Ohio Conference, J. S. Reager said they were ready to make any proper oon- oesslon for union. Before adjoitrnment it was clear that while the desire for a united sooiety was strong, very serious ob- 2 �taeles were in the way of its realisation. When the delegates reassembled in the afternoon, W. I. Haven led in prayer, asking earnestly for divine guidance and Ibid., pp. 31-32. 26 help. After a brief oonferenoe with hie oolleagues Hurlbut aade the proposition for a united sooiety with: 1. A strong spiritual foundation; 2. A looal society to be organized tinder the authority of the looal church; S| The general organization to be managed by a Board of Control, chosen like the other general officers of the churdh, by the General Con ference, but upon nomination by the Bishops .3 All the societies having sutnnitted a basis of \mlon, a committee on eoneolldatlon was appointed. This ooamiittee soon presented a model general oonstltutlon for the con solidated sooleties. It embraced many of the features of what eventually became the general constitution of the Epworth League . The ooimnlttee of one from eaoh society whloh had been appointed during the afternoon to confer about the publl- oation asked permission to report. Its recommendation was that Our Youth, a paper already in existence, be modified so as to give more prominence to the religious and social fea- turea of the proposed united society. Then the conference adjotirned till morning. Wednesday morning. May 15, found the little company again assembled in the olassroom of Central Church. A half hour was spent in prayer. One of the most influential move ments in the history of Methodism was about to take organic � Ibid. 87 form. How in^joptant that the Head of the Ohureh should be present to guide and control the deliberations of the con ference upon this historic day. First In order was the consideration of reports which bad been laid upon the table at the previous session. Those on consolidation and general organisation were considered first. The discussion was fraternal and free, and with slight amendinents, both the dootaments were approved. Next oame the discussion and selection of a name. The oommlttee reoofflraended that s l^lle we agree that the retention of the name of each sooiety here i>epresented would probably conduce to the strength of that sooiety for the time being, we have felt that, nevertheless, the interests of the work at large should only be oonsulted and that those interests may be subserved by mutual concession. We are in praotloal agreement that we can select no better noun that League. As to the adjective we are not agreed. The majority of your committee favors The Wesley League; one votes for the Oxford League, and one for the Christian League. We make t^ls tentative report as the oompletest we can now reaoh, and reserve our individual rights on the final vote.* The vote showed that the problem had been thoroughly discussed by the committee. When open to the oonferenoe motions, amendments, and substitutions followed each other in rapid succession. Agreement seemed to be impossible. Finally it was decided to go into oocvnittee of the whole. But the hour 26 of adjourrasont was at hand �nd the oomraittee postponed fur ther eonsld eratIons till afternoon. The devotional meeting with which the afternoon ses sion opened could never have been forgotten by those who were present. Most of the delegates participated. The atti tude of the little company was one of entire consecration, and their petition was for guidance in the lisportant steps they were trying to take. Then the perplexing question of a name was taken up again* ^ome new eomblnatlons of words were proposed, j^inally an inforaal ballot was agreed upon. The results: The Wesley League, twelve votes} The Fpworth t4�ague, nine; The Oxford League, eight; The Yovung People's League of the Methodist Kpiscepal Churoh, one.^ This vote, it will be remembered was taken in the eonBDlttee of the whole. When it was aixneuneed Hurlbut moved that the eoBssittee rise and repor^ the name Wesley League to the oonferenoe. S^ome of the delegates were eager to substitute the name Oxford for Wesley. The name Wesley League was tesqjorarily adopted. Then followed a eareful ex�alnation of the report of the ooRBiittee on looal oonstltutlon. The plan in brief, eontemplated a society having active and associate membership with a pledge for eat^ olass. The officers were to consist of a president, vice president, secretary, treasurer, and the chairman of standing committees; these officers, with the ^ Ibid., p. 35. 29 pastor, to form a board of managers. The following standing eommittees were proposed; Devotional, Denominational, Literary, Social Work, Visitation, and Finance. A footnote stated that the pledge for active members was recomaiended for general adoption, but if In any ^uroh this pledge should be found an obstacle to the formation of the League the mem bers might adopt the associate members* pledge. 6 The Conference went into committee of the whole to consider the proposed loeal constitution. Tiae was rapidly slipping away, so the speeches were limited to three minutes �aoh. After all animated debate, pending a decision a reoess of ten minutes was taken by the request of the representatives of the Oxford League. A bomb was thrown into the afternoon gathering, by a frank and courteous oommunleation, from the Oxford League Delegates. This letter Informed the conference that the Ox ford League would not suxn*ender its name and constitution to the one proposed by the conference. Ths letter further in formed the oonferenoe that unification was still the earnest desire of their grotxp, btit under the circumstances they would have to retire from the conference.''' ihe delegates of the Oxford League then withdrew from � Joseph F� ^erry. Four Wonderful Years (New Yorkt Hunt and Eaton, Clneinnati: Oranston and durtis, 1895) p. 36. ^ Ibid., pp. 36-37, 30 the room. When the conference recovered from its surprise *. motion DAS made and carried to spread the ooummication Just received upon the Journal. L. E. Warner and B, j. Mills, �f the Worth Ohio Conference Alliance, asked to be axousf^d from the oonferenoe because of syagsathy with the representa tives of the oxford League. All knew that a moment of crisis had come. Once again the grotg) betook themselves to prayer for guidance. As they prayed the answer came. Everyone felt the divine presence, W. I, Haven, with tears rolling down his face, said, "I am willing to concede anything, even the namet wc must not leave this place without securing the ends for uhlch we came - union."� A o<�amlttee was appointed to wait upon the Oxford League and invite them to return to the conference, fhis committee was Instinioted to say that the conference was willing to consider the local constitution of the Oxford League. The Oxfoed delegates returned to the room, and W. I, Haven reported that the committee had visited the Oxford League and Hurlbut wotd.d report the attitude of the League. The conference gave the repoirt careful consideration and it was agreed that the Oxford delegates agAln take their seats Ibid., pp. 36-37. 31 in th� asaembly. Upon motion the union of the five aooietlee was effooted. The looal oonatitution of the Oxford League was then read the and modlfioatlons stiggested by the conference were noted by Dr. Hurlbut. The conference went immediately into adoption of other matters. SSa. Qolor*" - '^pon motion by Hurlbut, the white ribbon with a scarlet thread running through the center from end to end, which had been the badge of the Young People's Methodist Alliance, was chosen as the colors of the new League. The Badge - It was resolved that the Maltese cross with the initials and motto of the League be adopted as the badge. The Maltese cross had been used as a badge by the Oxford League and the Young People's Christian Alliance. The Motto - The motto of the Young People's Christian Leagu� waa aeleoted as the motto of the new organisation, "8 "Look up; lift up. Sontiments of the I/oague were expressed in a sentence used by John Wesley and the motto of the Oxford League: "i a offensive desire to form league, and defensive, with every soldier of Jesus Christ" and "We live to make our ohuroh a power in the land, and live to love others who exalt our Christ." - PimpsonlO Ibid* 32 The hour of midnl^t approaehed as these final details were arranged. It wottld have been difficult to have found a happier group of men. "Praise Godl" was an exclamation which fell m all sincerity frtmi many lips. It would be hard to realise today what a thrill this organisation was to the young people of Methodism In the nineteenth oentury. Before the chureh paper had time to oarry efflolal news of the event to their readers, requests began to pour into the tea^orary office in Sew York for barters, or for Information as to how to organize a chapter. Some pasters* who had been wondering what to do with their young people eagerly accepted this ohanee to Introduoe Into their congregation a sooiety designed espeeially for this group. In other of the churches it was the pressure applied by the young people themselves that Induoed the pastor and efflolal board to permit organlzation.il Seven months after organization, charters had been granted to 1,480 chapters. 12 The Board of Control BMit for the first time at Chicago on February 6, 1890. the meeting attracted wide attention. Paul Hutdilnson, The Story of the Epworth League (Hew Yorkj The Methodist Book Concern, iS^!^), p. 12 Ibid. 55 Jessl* L, Hurlbut called the aaeetlng to order. A devotional period followed after which the appointment of eommittees took plaoe as follows? 1. Comalttees on Constitution of the Board of Control; 2, Committee on Local Chapter Constitution; S. Committee on Flnanee; 4. Cosmittee on Literature; and 5. CoOTBlttee on Belation to other Young People's Societies. 15 The c The next coamlttee to report was that on literature. It Insisted that an official paper be published by the League. The candid utteranoe of the Board of Control on the relation of the Bpworth League to other young people's so- eietlea was significant, especially in the light of later developments, the report of the Committee adopted by the Board read: The Ipworth League had Its origin In the conviction that the various young people's societies of the ohureh should be united in one organization. Its s^eme of work has been made large enough to comprehend all forma of Christian activity. We therefore reoonanend that all literary, social, and religious societies of young people now in existence in our ohuroh merge themselves Into the Epworth League and that every suoh society continue its special work through that department of the League under which it would properly fall. We oordlally reoognlze the efficient work of the so oleties of Christian Endeavor and other similar organi zations. We disclaim any purpose of antagonism. We seek rather that efficiency that ccanes In the use of our f>wv ohuroh methods. We would Join hands with them all In the Berry, 0�. olt., pp. 62-62. S4 training and leadership of young Binds in aggressive work for our one Master, this end we reeonstend that our Leagues seek suoh cooperation with all other Christian sooleties of young people in systematic visitation of the undhurohed and poor, in temperanoe and other reforms ti^ich may require division of labor or united effort. We reoommend the appointment of a fraternal delegate to the Epworth League of the Methodist Churoh of Canada. We recommend the appointment of a ooBBaittee of five whloh shall seek the appointment of committees fron similar societies who shall arrange for an Intez^enoml- national conferenoe of young people's societies.** In obedience to the recommendations of this oommlttee , W* W. Cooper was diosen fraternal delegate to the Epworth League of Canada, and J. B* Toung, Jessie L. Hurlbut and W. W. Young were appointed a oommlttee on an international con ferenoe. The report of the Committee on Looal Constitutions pre cipitated a aplrited discussion, but the original plan of the Conamlttee was not seriously modified. The constitution for looal groups as finally adopted readt Article I. Name - This organisation shall be known as the Methodist the Ipworth League of . Episcopal caiurch of . ai^ shall be subordinate to the Quarterly Conference of s&ld dhuroh, and a chapter of the Epworth League of the Methodist Episcopal Churoh. Article II. Objeot - The object of the League is to promote Intelliaent and loyal piety in young members and friends of the ohuroh; to aid them in the attainment of purity of heart and in constant growth in grace, and to train them in works of mercy and help. Ibid., pp. 67-66. 15 Ibid. 35 Article III. Mesberahlp - Members shall be consti tuted by election of the chapter, on nomination of the president, after approval by the cabinet. 2. The pastor shall be exoffieio a m�iRber of the chapter and cabinet. 3. Whenever a ohiQjter decides, there shall be two classes of Bombers, active and associate. Active members shall, in addition to election as provided in Section I, sub- serlbe to the following pledge: I will earnestly seek for myself and do iriiat I can to help others attain, the bluest Hew Testament standard of experience and life. I will abstain from all those forms of worldly amusements forbidden by the Discipline of the Methodist Episcopal ohureh, and I will attend, so far as possible, tJae religious meetings of the i^apter, and the ehuroh, and take some active part in them. Active members only shall be eligible to election as Offleers of the chapter. Assoolate members shall be entitled to all other privileges of membership. Article IV. Departments - ^he work of the League shall be earrled on through six departments as follows: 1. De partment of Christian *ork. 2. DepEu Artlole V. Offlo�r� - 1. ^be officers shall be a presi dent, seoretary, treasurer, first vice president, second, third and fourth vloe presidents. S. The president, who shall be a meKber of the Methodist %iscopal Church, shall be elected on ballot by a majority vote. The other offi cers shall be members of the Methodist Episcopal or some other evange 11 oal ohuroh, and shall be elected In the same manner. 3. All offleers must be approved by the Quarterly Conferenoe or the official board. 4. After approval by the Qjaarterly Conference or official board the naaes of the officers, with their addresses, shall be promptly forwarded to the central office of the Bp- worth League. 5. The officers shall perform the duties usually assigned to such officers, they shall also In the order named, represent and have charge of the Depart- Bientg of Correspondence, �finance. Christian Work, Mercy and Help, Literary Work, and Entertainment, 'ihey shall together with the president, constitute the cabinent Of chapter, aiding the president as he may request. 6. For the purpose of enlisting all in the work and rendering it more effective, the cabinet shall assign eaoh member to at least one department of work. Eaoh cabinet officer shall name to the chapter a oommlttee of from three to five m^nbers for the management of his department, the officer being "ex efflolo chairmen. Article VI. Meetings - The chapter shall hold a de votional meeting on evening of each week, to be led by one of the meinbers of the chapter under the direction of the Committee on Christian Work. Other meet ings may be held as the cabinet may arrange for them. Article VII. By-laws and amendments - The chapter may adopt suoh by-laws oons latent with the constitution as may be needed. Aotendments to oonstltutlon or by-lews may be submitted in writing to the cabinet, and when approved by it may be adopted by a two-thirds vote of those present 15 at any regular meeting. After two days of meeting the Board adjourned to meet again in St. Louis on May 14, 1891 When the Ipworth League celebrated Its first birthday there were 1,881 chapters enrolled. It seemed unbelievable. Ibid., pp. 68-70. 37 and the offleers did well to caution the members of the board of oontrol against expecting the growth to continue at that rate. "This Is the first outburst of youthful enthusiasm" 1'^ they warned. Wien the second anniversary came It was found that the League had 6,602 chapters. And the next year the membership increased to 8,102 chapters. After seven years there were 16,302 Chapters and this was not the peak of en rollment. The Organ of The Epworth League . ^lie first meeting of the Board of Oontrol took definite action to see that Improve ment be made In the youth paper of the Methodist Episcopal Church, ^'he word was given to the Methodist Book *^onoern to Issue a publication that should be of, by, and for the Epworth League. A new weekly was Instituted to be published at Chica go. Joseph P. Bewy, who became the most oonspl clous fi gure In the E^tworth League movement for mor� than a decade, was ehosen to edit the Epworth Herald, He brought from the earapus of Garrett Blblloal Institute a young theological student, Stephen J. Herben, who became assistant editor. Sub scriptions were to be |1.50 a year, but to encourage chapter subsarlptlons en bloc, a rate of one dollar was established for clubs of ten or more, and for eighty oents a year to clubs of twenty-five or more. The paper was to eo�*tain sixteen 1'' Hutchinson, o�, olt.. p. 32. 36 pages a week.18 From the day its first Issue carae from the press The l^jworth Herald was not only a Journalistic hit, but a sen sation. By October of that first year there were 27,000 subscribers; by January, 1891 there were 30,000; by the end of 1891 there were S5,000. ^''inally the hundred thousand nark was reached, naklng the largest olroulatlon ever reached, at that time, by a doncwii national weekly, in the United States . Age Level of The League . "niere were three age levels in the ^worth League. The Senior League was composed of yotxng people from elf^teen to thirty years of age* The In termediate league was composed of boys and girls between the ages of 13 to 17. The Junior league Included children from nine to twelve years of age* In oonne.etion with the Intermediate league there was provision for the Knli^ts of Eselah for boys and girls of Epworth, for the girls. Each league had Its own oonstltutlon and by-laws* 0, The Organisation of Qhapters . In organization of ehapters key men who were sufficiently Interested were en listed to learn all they could about the League. Then when a group was formed they interested others* Lltei^ture to supply every person in the oonferenoe was provided. Mass Ibid., p* 40. 39 neetlngB were held when the grovip decided that the tlste waa favorable for organising the chapter. Plret an Impreaslve prograra waa arranged, designed ehlefly to convey InfoiTnatlon In regard to the Epworth League, and names of young people suited to hold office were elected � Organisation followed the principal address, one being ohosen for teisporary ohainnan and another for tssaporary secretary, a vote was then was taken as whether to go ahead with organization. If the question was settled in the affizmiatlva, the move was made toward permanent organisation. Immediately after organisation the corresponding seoretary sent a full account of the organization to the central office in Hashvllle, Tennessee, to make application for charter.!* The Charter. The charter set forth the facts and date of the organization of the chapter, giving the offiolal name and number of the particular league, and was signed by the President and General Seoretary of the Board, The charter was Issued free of charge by the central office and no chapter was offioially recognized until it was chartered .^^ D. THE LEAGUE CALESDAR Quiet Hour Covenant . The first Sunday in January was Helen B. Boulware, Raljdi E. Holler, Fitzgerald � Parker, Epworth League Handbook (Hashvllle: 1931} pp. 37. 40 a day of prosenting the qulot hour covenant. The whole chap ter If possible, was enrolled In the oovenant to open at least fifteen minutes a day in devotional Bible reading and prayer . Epworth Era Pay was observed the second Sunday in January, and was the occasion for securing subscriptions and renewals for the League organ. Fellowship Week began the Sunday preceding Easter, and was partly so named because It was a week of world-wide ob servance by all Kethodist yotxth, but chiefly because each chapter was to come together eaoh day for prayer servloe, the theme of eaoh service being appropriate to the corresponding day of our Lord's last week on earth. Each member sought to enter Into oloser fellowship with Christ. Anniversary Day was the second Sunday in Kay, which corresponded as nearly as possible with the date of the birth of the League, fhis day was to be obsemred throu^out the Cthuroh by all members. At this service an offering was taken for League extension. Education Day oame early in June and was devoted �speolally to the oauee of Christian eduoatlon in the ohuroh. The program had special reference to the work of the schools and oolleges. Mission Study Rally Day was in October in connection 20 Ibid., p. 38. 41 with the alaslonary meeting* Bible Btudy Day was the third Sunday in September, and was observed in eommon with thousands of congregations and societies throughout the United States. This program was for encouraging systematic Bible study .^1 1. CHANGES THE YEARf. BROUGHT The wheel of the Epworth League whloh was a oarry over from the Oxford League, became known far and wide. Making the whell go became the purpose of every good officer. The whell represented the six departments of the League. In 1903, when the departments were rearranged and renamed from six to four departments, the wheel was discarded. In its plaoe appeared the Maltese cross made familiar in the badge.?� The pledge pretty well stood the test of time, with one change being made in 1913, the wording of the clause eon oernlng amusements being changed to a promise to abstain from such diversions as cannot be used in the name of the Lord .23 The League adapted itself somewhat to the changing times, but basieally it remained the same* P. SOME RESULTS OP THE LEAGUE A young woman reader of the Epworth Herald, on her way to the mission field, wrote on ship board to the Herald, that her going to the field had grown out of her work in the &p- 21 Ibid., p. 39. 22 Hutchinson, 0�. olt., p. 62. 42 worth League, By 1927 the Epworth League had a strong foreign missions prograra, with one chapter In India dating baok to the Oxford League, In 1888. The League put speoial eH^>ha8ls on social service, and in every coinmunlty where there was a chapter, such service was part of the program of the organlaatlon. Culture and Recreation were eaqjhasized as Important features of the program. Reading rooms and reading clubs were provided for the public whenever possible. E, TEE FLEXIBILITY OF THE LFAOHE The league did not insist on a rigid program to be oarrled on under all olroumstances. ^'er this reason It was possible to see two similar groups doing dissimilar things, being of the %worth League. CHAPTER IV THE METHODIST YOUTH FELLOWSHIP th� Mathodlst Youth Followthlp represents the jnerger of the youth groups froa the Methodist Protestant church, the Methodist ;^isoopal ehuroh, and the Metiiodlst Episcopal Churoh, South, These three churches were joined at the Uniting Con ferenoe of 1939 at Kansas "^Ity, Missouri. The offloial youth prograa of the Methodist Episcopal churches, was the Et>worth League, organized In 1889 at Cleve land, Ohio. The official youth program of the Methodist Protestant ohuroh was Christian Endeavor, founded In 1881 at Portland, Maine i^ioh served as a nondenosiinational youth program for many denominations. At the time of the unification of the three Methodist bodies the General Conferenoe gave the General Board the reapohslblllty of bringing together the youth work into a unified program* To aoocwqplish this, the Board of Education set up a youth commission to oonduet a careful study and make recommendations for the xmlfled program. After months of painstaking work, consultation by the staff with youth groups and leaders throughout the nation, a nation-wide meeting of youth and a church-wide poll of all Methodist youth themselves, the decision was made to name the new youth movement "The Methodist Youth Fellowship." 44 At the time of selecting a name for the new youth organisation, the motto, colors, oovenant, and benediction, of the new youth fellowship were decided upon. IHae isaatolem and Colors, fhe outer design of the emblem la a c(mbinatlon of the Cross Pattee and the Maltese cross, and at the eenter Is the Latin cross. Binding the whole to gether Is the oirole. The outer cross has eight points, which stands for eight beatitudes. A Christian exemplifies these eight qualities in his life. The four wings of the outer represents the references in Luke 2j5S, "And Jesus in creased in wisdom and in stature and in favor with God and roan.*l The inner, or Latin cross, is enpty (as distinguished from the crucifix whloh includes the body of Chri st ) and sym bolises Christ's saorlfioe and victory over death. The Pellewehlp worships a living Christ. As the Latin cross stands at the center of the emblem, so saorlflolal service is supposed to be oentral in all that is done by the Methodist Youth Fellowship.2 The oi]*ole symbolizes world-wide fellowship with Christ and with one another. The colors of the Methodist Youth Fellowship are blue and gold. ^ , Handbook of the Methodl st Youth Fellowshl' ' ( Nashvlll �n The Methodist Publishing Mouse, 1953) p. 1'5. 45 Ttte Motto. Methodist youth seleoted "Christ above all" as the motto of the Fellowship fhe Benediction; Leader: The Lord bless you and keep you: Gro\qp: The Lord make his face to shine upon yo and be greolous unto you: leader and Groups The Loi^i lift up his conntenanoe upon you, and give you peace. Amen, (Humbers 6:24-25)* The Covenant . The dlstlnetive meaning of the Method ist Youth Fellowship is set forth in the ooveiumt, whloh be- oomea the deelaratlon of faith or statement of ptirpoBe as one joins it. It is our puz>pose In the Methodist Youth Fellowship: to live clean lives following the highest that we knowj to give o\ir loyalty and service through the Methodist ohuroh of whleh we are a part, working with others that she may more perfeetly follow the Master and more worthily bless mankind � To hold the ideals of unselfish service ever before us, striving continually for human betterment, placing the welfare of others above our ownj and in simple trust, 5 to follow Jesus as our Saviour and Lord. The Methodist Youth Fellowship has many branches of service, both in and out side the local ohuroh. This study dealt first with the departments In the looal ohuroh that make up the Fellowship. THl IHTEMBDIATK PEPAHTMEST The intermediates are boys and girls between the ages ' Ibid- * Ibid. 5 Ibid., p. 14. 46 of twelve and foin>teen* The term Junior High is also used interohangeably with Interaediate. To observe intermediates is to observe rapid growth* Pieture^a twelve year old, and then a foiorteen year old. Many ohanges have taken place. The years between childhood and youth are termed intermediate. It is important that the ohureh approach the Intermediate with understanding and guide him with vlslson. The intermediate has certain general ohairacterlstics peculiar to this stage of growth. They are no longer children � nor are they full-fledged youth. At one moment an inter mediate may esdiibit amazing maturity of thought. At another moment an impulsive reaction will reveal that he has not yet *� f?put away ohlldish things. Conscious of their growth and eager to be accepted by their fellows and their elders, they heartily dislike being considered children. Chureh leaders of Interaediates seek to conserve values of the earlier train ing which the boys and girls have had as children and to build toward that whloh will come later. THE CHURCH PROGRAM FOR IHTHaRMEDTATlS In oertain definite ways the church guides its boys and girls in Christian growth. These make up the^progrsw" . "Program" as used here means all the activities of a group throtigh a period of time. The program for intermediates in- 47 oludes what takes plaoe at Sunday school; afternoon or even ing or weekday meetings; and all other meetings and activi * ties. Parts of the program may take place at different meetings, but th� program Itself is autonomous. The program of the Intermediate department Is a part of the larger pro gram of the youth division of the church sohool, and the church. QOALIFICATIOSS FOR LEADERS OP INTERMM)IATES Leaders of intermediates should be mature adults. Many times young people arc appointed to leadership in this department and not rightly so, for they themselves need fur ther growth through study and activities in their own age- groupa. By "mature adult" is not meant one who has forgotten what It was like to be an intermediate, but rather one who has lived long enoi;igh end abundantly enoxigh to know how to meet trying situations with Christian poise, to meet question ing minds with resourceftilness, and to become for eaoh boy and girl a friend. Leaders of intermediates should be Christian persons idio, through the vlnsomeness of their personalities, oan make the Christian way of life attractive. Leaders of Intermediates should seek a growing under standing of the age group and its needs. Leaders of intermediates should be faithful. So com pelling should be their vision of their task that they will 48 not dare approaob a group without careful preparation, or be absent or late without notice, or bring their boys and girls less than their best. Leaders of Intenaedlates should believe In the edu cational process. Leaders of Interaedlates should understand the churoh prograa and their relationship to It.' Leaders. Leaders in the Intermediate department In clude: the pastor, the general Superintendent, the youth division superintendent, department ootinselor, teachers, ad visers to officers and oommlttees, the missionary adviser, the enrollment seoretary, the pianist. Regtilar monthly meet ings of this groxip should be held if at all possible.� ^e function of the department staff Is to keep an overview of the departmental work. ORGAHIZATIOH It Is the purpose of the churoh sohool in working with Intenaediates, to guide these boys and girls In Christian growth. The main oonoern Is the lives of the individuals, rather than making the organization work, but organization is essential. There are two plans of organization set up by the 1944 Methodist Dieolpllne: Bowman, 0�. olt., pp. 12-14. 8 Ibid., pp. 14-19. 49 Eaoh department shall organize in acoordanoe with one or the other of the two following plans (to be outlined fully by the General Board of Education) as may be deter mined by the membership concern and the churoh Board of Education, a. Plan I. IBiere a unified organization is desired one organization, with one set of officers and one pro gram-planning Department council, shall be responsible for carrying on all the activities of the department as outlined in 2 above, b. Plan II. Where two or more oorrelated organi zations are desired, they may be provided within the department to carry on activities as outlined in 2 above. Each may have its own officers, program committees, and separate membership. Suitable representives from eaoh organization within the department shall meet together as a department eoimcil monthly or as often as necessary to give such supervision over the programs of the organi zation concerned as shall avoid duplication and omissions and meet the total needs of the age group ooncerned. The department council shall represent the entire department in matters which concern that age group of the local churoh.** Membership is in the department as a whole. A boy or girl does not join the Sunday School meetings and the evening or weekday meeting. He joins the fellowship and participates in the various activities. The roll is made up of the de partment as a �^ole, and not by different meetings, and sub divisions. The motto, colors, benediction, oovenant s and emblem are the sam for all three departments. THK SENIOR AND YOUNG PEOPLE'S DEPARTMMT The Senior Department consists of boys and girls be tween the ages of fifteen and seventeen. The Young People's * Noland B. Harmon, (ed.). The Methodist Discipline, (The Methodist Publishing House, 1944) pp. SS-STT 50 Department eons lata of young men and women between the ages of eighteen and twenty�>three . These two departments may be organised separately or together depending on the size of the ohuroh. They way be organised either according to Plan I or Plan 11.10 ^ gQQjj working principle is that as little time as possible be spent In separate organizations, so that more time may be spent in activities of Christian growth and ser vice. Plan I. 11th Plan I, there Is only one department Iftjloh ineludes all the activities of the group. There Is one set of officers, and a Department Council responsible for the program as a whole; membership is in the department as a whole. One Joine the group of Sunday School youth which funetlons as a olass or department on Sunday morning and In other activities on Sujnday evening and through the week.H The officers are: President (who by vlrture of his offlee is a member of the Quarterly Conference and who should be a member of the Methodist (%uroh}, Vloe President, Secretary and Treasurer (with combinations as desired) and suoh other officers as may be deemed necessary. There is to be a trea surer of the Methodist Youth Fund. Officers are elected annually.!* Under Plan II, within the department, the Sunday School group is a separate organization, the Sunday evening group is 10 Bowman, o�. olt., p. 32, 11 Ibid., p. 33. 12 Ibid. 5X a aaparate organisation, and other separate organisations �ay also exist. Membership is in each organisation. Offi cers are eleoted separately for eaoh organisation as In Plan For both Plan I and Plan II there Is a coiuioll. Under Plan I It Is composed of the department officers, the chair man of the program committee, the chairmen and advisers of all eoomisslons, the adult counselor, the pastor and the superintendent of the Youth Division. It may include Sunday school teabhers in advisory capacity.!* In the Senior and Young People's Department the aotlvl- ties of the organisation are oarrled on through fovir aommlss- lens} the Commission on Worship and Evangelism; Commission on World Friendship; Coimnlsslon on Commxmlty Servloe; and Com mission on Recreation and Leisure .1^ The chairmen of the oommlsslens are elected In the same manner as the principle officers. In smaller ohurohes where the number does not warrant having four ooamlsslens, the program functions as a whole with all members partlolpatlng In activities relating to those four areas* The commission on Worship and Evangelism Is respon sible for the evangelistic outreach of the Methodist Youth 15 Ibid., p. 34. I'* Ibid* 1� "The Methodist Youth Fellowship'' The Encyclopedia Amerioana, (New York: Sinerloana Corporation, 1955), XVIII, 727. 52 Fellowship, In many groups the Weekend Christian Witness Mission is a definite plan of youth evangelism used in the annual oonferenoe, distrlot, subdlstrlot, and looal ohuroh, fhro\igh this program young people are given an opportunity to witness to unohurched youth. In Intensive weekends of evangelism,16 The Methodist Youth Fellowship oounoll, led by the ohairman of Christian Witness Coranittee, and the adult oounselors and teaohers plan together, and name necessary teaqsorary or subsidiary oommlttees* Suoh committees may In- olude: Prospects - prepare a prospect list of unchurched youth. Arrange names and addresses of the prospects and assign oards to visitation teams. These teams recruit and divide visitors into teams of two. Their work is carefully supervised* Food - Goionlttee plana for the group to be together in fellowship �uid training suppers. The oommlttee on publielty uses bulletins, posters, letters, telephone calls and per sonal contaets. The Fellowship committee has song-fests, get- aequalnted aetlvltles, and mixers for new-comers arranged and planned for Saturday evening and Sunday Methodist Youth Fellow ship meetinpis.l*^ "Weekend Christian Witness Projects" (pamphlet, Nashville t Methodist Publishing House, } 1'^ Ibid. 53 For visiting, th� tesffis are given minute Instruction. 1. Pray before you call. 2. Introduce yourself clearly. 3. Early In the call Indicate yotir purpose. 4. Guide the conversation. 6. Witness to your own faith, 6. Talk about the reasons why he should be a Ohrist lan. 7. Ask him to record his oomraitment. 8. Offer a prayer. 9. Relax and enjoy yourself .I� The world Friendship Commission oontrols the illsslonary outreach of the Methodist Youth Fellowship. The primary missionary outreach is through the Methodist Youth Fund. The Methodist Youth Fund is the fund through whloh members of the Methodist Youth Fellowship help In a program of missions. Christian education, and youth work around the world . The Fund Is appropriated in tems of cents. 67| oents goes for sdssions. 47f cents in woman's Division of Christian Service. 20 cents is used in a program of Christian education in Annual Conferences overseas and in home mission conferences. 19 38^ oents goes for youth work. The Methodist Youth Fund projects Includes Christian Education, community centers, educational work, interdenomin ational work, medical work, rural work, social-evangelistic work and youth work of the Methodist Church. IS Ibid. 1� "Methodist Youth Fund" (Sashville: 1957) p. 5. 20 Ibid., pp. 10-87. 54 The �OBBaission on CoasB'unlty Servloe is not merely in terested In delivering baskets to the needy. Ideally it is not the Interest of the oonsBlssion to do something merely ^1 beoause It is set up as an objective, but to serve humanity. Heoreatlon has Its own vital place in the program of the Methodist Youth Fellowship. Planning for recreation is to be done as carefTjlly and as thoroughly as planning for any other part of the program. The recreational program is net to be Just a time consuming program, but to be planned In suoh a way as to fit Into the ultimate elm of the movement. The missionary eduoatlon adviser to the intermediate depart ment, and the adviser to the Goramlasion on World Friendship of the senior and young people's departments have opportunity to suggest interesting games of other lands, and recreational or hobby pursuits related to certain units of study and wor ship.22 In senior and young people's departments, the youth themselves should assume the major responsibility for planning the recreational events; in intermediate departments, more of the responsibility rests upon the adult leaders. TIMES OF WORSHIP For youth In small churches as well as large ones, generally four types of worrtilp are suggested} 21 Ibid. S5 1. Devotional services, usually brief, in the age- group fellowship, A service should not be called devotional unless it is directed to bringing one to a deeper experience of fellowship with Ood, 2, Moments of worship, that should oome occasionally in the midst of group discussion or other activities, 3� Participating in the worship life of the oh\xroh as a whole, particularly on Sunday raoraing or in evening ser vices of the congregation. 23 4. Habits of personal prayer and meditation. BEYOND THE LOCAL CHUROH The point of focus in all youth work is the local ohuroh. The looal Methodist Youth PellowiEtilp is the center of the youth program. In addition to an active looal pro gram, senior and older youth, as well as their adult leaders need aotivltles beyond the looal ohuroh. This Is provided through the subdlstrlot, district, conference, Jurisdiction or region, and nation. The Intermediate program is planned only for the local church. Intermediates are holding offices for the first time, and making adjustments that do not require as varied a pro gram. Preferably meetings beyond the looal church level should not be held at any regular time - certainly not more often than onoe or twice a year. These shoiild be planned in keeping with Ibid., pp. 99-102. 56 the ongoing program in the looal ohuroh. SENIORS Seniors are ready for the wider oonneotional aotivitiee of the Methodist Touth Fellowship. Beyond the looal chxiroh activity shoxild never become organised simply for itself alone, neither shoiild it ooaqpete with the local ehuroh for the time and energies of seniors. Each level of activity must supple ment the other to build a better youth program in each ohuroh and reaoh youth not already a part of the Fellowahip.SS OLDER YOUTH Older youth beginning to face seriously the issues of their world see that their religion must be applied. Their needs and Interest cannot be met by grouping them with hl^ school youth for all of their activities. In many annual conferences older youth assemblies, in stitutes, and oamps are provided for inspiration and study. Activities beyond the local ohuroh should stimulate a separate program for their age group in looal ohurohes .25 Th9 Subdistriot Fellowship. A subdistriot Fellowship is made up of senior and older youth from several ohurohes. ^* Handbook of the Methodist Youth Fellow- ghlp, (Nashville} Met!hodi8t Publlihing House, 1953), p. 359. 25 Ibid., pp. 360-361. 26 Ibid., p. 368. 57 In it there mey be as few as fewr or five ohurohes or as �eny as fifteen or twenty* The subdistriot eo-operates with the distrlot staff of Christian eduoatlon and with the oonferenoe board of edu oatlon and the General Board of Eduoatlon. The young people eleot their own offloor a and adtilt eounselor. The program is planned to stimulate Interest In the looal ehuroh and In eaoh area.27 The Distrlot Fellowship . The distrlot fellowship is made up of representatives of senior and older youth from the lurches of the distrlot. In a distrlot with aotive subdistriots there is no need for extensive organisation. The distrlot should serve as a link between the subdlstrlot and oonferenoe, with only the organization neoessary for that purpose. The distrlot superintendent and the district director 28 of youth work serve as oounselors. The Annual Conference Fellowship . Young people (not including Intermediates) from all churches in the conference are represented In the ^nual Conferenoe Fellowship. They elect offleers who work with the executive secretary of the oonferenoe board of education and the conference director of youth work. This oonnittee developes the oonferenoe program 27 Ibid. 58 for youth. The offiolal name la "The Conferenoe Methodist Youth Fellowship." The youth of all the looal churches with in the bounds of the conference throuj^ their selected re presentatives make up the membership. There Is an annual meeting of the Conferenoe Youth Fellowship at whltih time polioy Is outlined and adopted, the budget set up, special es^hases and projects considered and planned. This group meets to evaluate the work being done, to set up certain ei^hasea, and make definite plans to achieve the purposes argued upon, with reapenslbilltles distinguished. The oonferenoe organisation is to funetlon vitally throughout the distrlot and subdistriot to help ytnith of every local church oarry on their work more effectively and to live better Christian llves.^� The Jarlsdletlon Fellowship. Jurisdictional organi sations exist In some sections of the ohuroh, and jurisdic tional end regional conferences are held for the training of oonferenoe, distrlot, and subdistriot officers. Also there are jurisdlotlonal leedorshlp schools held for trAlnlng workers with youth. The Satlonal Cenferenoe of Methodlet Youth. The National ConfeiH>noe of Methodist Youth bring together annually the local oh\irch� Presidents of all annual conferenoe Method- 29 Ibid., pp. 36S-564. 50 Ibid., p. 364. 59 iat Touth PellowBhlpa, and atate presidents of the Methodist Student Movement, together with representatives from several general boards and eommissions and representative adult workers from eaoh Jurisdiotion. The national Oonferenoe divides itself Into two groups for a period of time - one group for general youth work and the other for stiMent work. This provides opportunity for leaders of the whole nation to participate in making plana for the youth program of the total churoh. The national Conferenoe has no power over the youth and student organisations on the other levels. It does not promote a separate program. I works with the leaders on all organisational levels.5! The Joint Staff. The Joint Staff is made up of those on various boards and agencies responsible for the youth work of the whole church.. This staff meets onoe or twice a year to co-ordinate and plan for the total program of youth work.58 Youth Work on the College Campus. Everything possible is done to help tha* college student continue to feel a part of the youth program of the church, '^he Methodist Student Move ment is organised on church oollege caa^uses and the Wesley Foundation in state-auppoirted schools. In its state and re- 51 Ibid., pp. 564-366. ^2 Ibid., p. 366. 60 glonal organizations the Methodist Student Hovensent Is close ly related to the Fellowship. %th the oonferenoe youth and student organisation are represented on the conference hoard of eduoatlon .53 In connection with Methodist work asiong oollege youth. Is a summer program oalled Methodist Youth Caravans. This la open only to college young people. A typical Methodist Youth Caravan is made up of five persona t two young women, two young men and an adult coun selor. They volunteer eight weeks of their summer to work with youth In local ohxarches in discovering more effective ways of meeting the needs of youth through the Methodist Youth Fellowrinlp.5* The purpose of the caravan Is to help strengthen and revitalize the youth program of the looal churoh. In working with the Methodist Youth Fellowship the Caravan will help the group In developing new skills In group leadership, dis cussion leadership, program planning, recreation leadership, worship, and personal devotions. Also home visitation plans are worked out to win new members .55 THE PROGRAI.^ AHEA The work of the senior and older youth groups Is 55 Ibid., pp. 366-367. 34 wyouth Caravans" Methodist Board of Education, p. 3. 61 arranged for in five program areas: Christian Faith, Christ ian Witness, Christian Outreach, Christian Citizenship, and Christian Fellowship, The purpose of each area Is: Christ ian Faith, to help youth grow in a vital Christian faith and life; Christian Witness, to help youth to make known to others the way of Christ; Christian Outreach to make known to youth the needs of the world and help them to accept their responsibility; Christian Citizenship, to present the needs of the community and to meet these needs through per sonal Influence and action; Christian Fellowship to bring youth together In a Christian bcmd of fellowship. 62 CHAPTBR V A COMPARATIVP STUDY Through the years aany changes have oocured in the youth organization of the Methodist Ohurdi . This chapter deala with ohanges in regards to aims* The Methodist Alliance, the first youth organization ef the Methodist church, grew out of a spirit of revival, where yoimg people sought the blessing of "heart purity" at a Methodist oas^meetlng* The revival spirit spread until a number of young people had been baptized with the Holy Spirit. This brought them together with a vital interest in one another and other young people who had not reoeived this bless ing* The Alllanoe was formed as a means of maintaining spirit ual fellowship from one campmeetlng season to the next. Only those who were Christians and seeking the blessing of heart purity or had already prafeased to receiving It could be aotive members. The meBd}ers pledged themselves to abstain frcra all questionable amusements, to observ periods of dally prayer and Bible study and to devote tlsie dally to the purpose of soul winning. This pledge was not required of associate members *! The Oxford League was strongly denominational In its aim. It sought to help Methodist youth and to build up the Joseph P� Berry, Four Wonderful Years (Hew York; Hunt and Eaton, 1895) pp* 8-10. 63 It was primarily religious in its aim, though much emphasis was placed upon social development. It sought to deveolp the whole man by promoting Bible study for spiritual develop to ment; broaden and enrioh CJhrlstian personality by pro viding cultural] Influences and to encourage and assist young people in Christian service.^ The Yoiing People's Christian League was organised with the thought of bringing about a spirit of cooperation among the already existing youth societies of the Methodist church. It required primary allegiance to the local churoh and through this it was believed that one oentral body would come into focus. The Methodist Toung People's Union grew out of a pas tor's eonference in the state of Michigan. It was organized with the elm of extending the social and religious culture of the young people, Thfi Methodist Episcopal Alliance was organized for the purpose of bringing unity among the youth societies of Method ism. The Epworth League incorporated ideas from all five societies and proposed to cultivate Christian fellowship among young people; deepen their Christian experience through prayer, testimony, exhortation and personal evangelism; train them in Ibid., pp. 12-15. 64 the ��y of the ohureh; lead them in the way of social and alaslonary service; and to supply the requlrenents of social and recreational life. The League was to teach and to Illustrate the vital doctrines and precepts of the Oospel such as Christian ex- perlenoe; repentance; faith; the witness of the Spirit; dis cipline of heart and alnd; and dedication of self, tlae, and noney, to Cod. The pledge to be taken by active nembers eould be ellslnated In these ohurehee where It would be In- applloable because of the lack of Christian yoiing people. The Methodist Youth Fellowship set as their purpose to; live eliean lives, eaoh nember following his bluest ideals, give their loyalty and support to the Methodist chtireh of whloh they are a part, working with others that she may more isorthlly follow the Master andi norm worthily bless man kind; to hold the Ideals of unselfish service ever before them striving eontinually for human betterment, placing the welfare of ethers above their own; and In simple trust, follow Jesus as their Saviour and Lord. The Epworth League as has been noted, had three types of members, and only Christian young people oould be active isembers, who voted and held offices. The Methodist Youth Fellowship has only one type of member and that membership may be obtained by being a member of th� Sianday sohool. No pledge is required for membership. 65 The Epworth League waa organised by adults, and stand ards were set by them to whioh the youth should attain. The Method! Et Youth Fellowship was guided by adults but the choice of standards and goals was left mostly to the youth. Ixamination of these goals revealed a marked change in emphasis from that of the Metaiodist Alliance. General culture. Christian service, ecclesiastical emphatia, ohuroh wide organisation of youth, recreational and social life, and social service were Included In the aims as the organisation moved toward the contemporary Methodist Youth Fellowship type. The emphasis upon youth setting Its own standards and goals and seeking to be oontemporary Is a move away from the standards of the Alliance, Into enqjhasls upon growth aM social service.